Understanding Stickiness in Your Aloe Vera Gel

You've asked why your aloe vera gel formulation, despite being liquid, feels sticky after application, especially with ingredients like Vitamin B5 5%, Natural moisturizing amino acid 5%, Vitamin B3 5%, Glucosamine (N-Acetyl-D) 4%, and Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) Extract 5%.

The sticky or tacky feeling you experience is likely due to the presence of humectant ingredients in your formula, particularly Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) and Natural moisturizing amino acids, both at a concentration of 5%. Humectants work by drawing moisture from the environment or deeper skin layers to the skin's surface, which helps with hydration but can sometimes leave a slightly tacky feel, especially at higher usage percentages.

As the staff mentioned, it is natural for gel textures to have some initial tackiness upon application. However, this feeling should typically subside as the product absorbs into the skin. If the sticky feeling persists and is uncomfortable for you, it indicates that the formula might be too heavy or contain humectants at a level that your skin type (combination-to-dry) finds excessive, even if your skin needs moisture.

To address this, you could consider adjusting the formula. This might involve reducing the percentage of Vitamin B5 and Natural moisturizing amino acids. Alternatively, as suggested by the staff, you could explore changing the base of your formulation entirely. Switching to a water-in-silicone cream base using an emulsifier like Warp Cream Maker can provide a lighter, less tacky feel while still delivering beneficial ingredients.

Ultimately, the best approach is to adjust the formula until you achieve a texture that feels comfortable and pleasant on your skin after full absorption.